6 Days on the Croatian Coast and National Parks

Dubrovnik is definitely the most well known city in the country and for good reason. Its beauty was used as Kings Landing in Game of Thrones and the Old City is enclosed in an amazing fort atop ocean cliffs. Walk along the walls for ocean and city views or dive into museums and history inside the walls. Croatia has some of the best food in Europe and you will find something special in every alleyway. Once you have done a couple laps inside the walls, take a kayak or boat tour to Lokrum Island. Finish the day with sunset views on the cable car ride to the top of the mountain. One of the most beautiful views I have ever gotten to see!

Don't just check another country off the list just because, go with a purpose to a totally underrated destination. A short ride from Dubrovnik, on some interesting roads, is the city of Mostar and Blagaj Tekke Monastery. Mostar is famous for their cultural sights and the Old Bridge that cliff divers jump off of every day. The BEST meal I have ever had was a meat plate just next to the bridge. On your way back towards Croatia, Kravice Waterfalls are a great introduction to the waterfalls to come.

Split is the next most popular city on the coast and a major cruise port. The highlight in the old city is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian's palace and it is in stunning condition. There are multiple museum options, shops and restaurants to explore, but once you are through move on the Riva. The Riva is the waterfront promenade with views of the islands in the distance to build your excitement. Once you have seen the sights, head to one of the many beach options to relax in the crystal clear water. Kasjuni Beach is a great option!

The Croatian Islands need a day to themselves, or a month. This was one of my hardest choices planning with so many to choose from until I found the Three Caves Tour! This tour took us to the Blue Cave, Stiniva beach, snorkeling in the monk seal cave, and Hvar, the most famous party island in the Adriatic. We got away from any crowds, ate fresh caught tuna steak from that morning, and had the perfect day of relaxing and adventure.

Krka is the second most well known Park in the country with the single best waterfall, possibly in all of Europe! The river cascades and builds until it becomes a massive terraced waterfall. There is a very nice loop trail that goes around all of the falls and offers scenic overlooks, as well as some history of the area. The rest of the park is much less frequented but people are missing out! I would recommend checking out the lakes and Roski Slap. You can even take a river boat cruise to a monastery.

Plitvice Lakes seriously felt like a fantasy land. I have never seen any place like it. As you walk the boardwalk loop trails, the waterfalls don't stop, the lakes are crystal clear, and the views from every angle are insane! The main draw is the boardwalk trail that can be separated into many trails. For less mobile folks, there are shuttle options to each lake. For hikers, there are astounding cliffside views of the cascading lakes. You can also take a boat across the lake to get access to more. One day will suffice but don't be surprised if you want to come back.

If you need to make your way back to Dubrovnik (I would encourage to explore more if you can, but you can always come back!), there are plenty of stops you can take on the way back. You will likely stay in Zadar in between trips to the National Parks, but if you didn't have time to explore, check out their historic district. They have some fun sights like the Sun Salutation and sea organ. Trogir is another Roman historic town with tight alleyways that feel like you are in a movie. Omis and Makarska have more great beaches with mountain backdrops that offer Ziplining and a skywalk.